Some stuff that i think could be of use in the future if not now.(a glimpse of what i learn in computing.haha)

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Gathering information through interviewing

Interviewing is the most frequently used method of collecting the necessary information; for much systems work, it is the only method used. The work can be carried out in three steps:

1. Preparation
2. Conducting
3. Reviewing.

Preparation involves general planning, constructing checklists of information wanted, and constructing interview guides. The use of checklists helps to ensure that interviewing is carried out in a well-organised manner. It helps to meet the objectives of the detailed investigation stated earlier, to get the maximum of information in the minimum of time.

Question: What preparation should a be made before an interview?

Conducting: When conducting an interview, an interview guide should be used. It is a list of specific questions to be asked. Its purpose is to aid in the conduct of the interview by giving a well-thought out series of questions in a logical sequence, and ensuring that no important questions are forgotten.

Guidelines for its preparation are:

1. Keep phrasing as simple as possible; avoid multiple questions.
2. Be sure that each question is a suitable one for the person being interviewed. For example, Is he likely to know the answer? Is he the best person to give the accurate answer?
3. Head each guide with the name and title of the interviewee and the date and time of the interview.
4. Number each question and leave plenty of room for writing down answers, remember that you will be asking supplementary questions that are not on the guide.

As a general rule of thumb, interviews should be conducted formally. This is in particular important when the interviewer and interviewee already know each other well and are on friendly terms. The atmosphere of formality helps to ensure that the interview does not degenerate into an aimless chat, and that the analyst gets all the information he needs efficiently and accurately.

Reviewing: Interviewers should review their interview notes immediately after completing each interview. A narrative summary of the interview could be completed the same day if possible, within two days at the most. This summary document will be the working document use in the phases of analysis and design. The interview guides and notes should be kept in the project files until the project is completed, so that if any questions arise, the ‘source’ can be consulted without necessarily having to see the interviewee again.
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